Sustainable economic growth: LCCI for strengthening industry-academia linkages

LAHORE: President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol said that strengthening industry-academia linkage is the most important step for sustainable economic growth and innovation, emphasising that closer collaboration between educational institutions and industry is essential to enhance productivity, competitiveness, and skills development.

He stated that the Chamber has made industry-academia cooperation its central focus for the year, describing it as the most important agenda to support research-driven industrial progress and create meaningful opportunities for youth.

Addressing the inaugural meeting of the LCCI Standing Committee on Industry-Academia Linkage, he highlighted the need for practical partnerships that translate academic research into market-oriented solutions.

He said that effective engagement between universities and industry would help bridge the gap between theory and practice, enabling businesses to benefit from innovation while preparing students for real-world challenges.

Convener of the SC on Industry Academia Linkage Umer Saleem said that sustained interaction between the two sectors is vital for aligning academic research with industrial requirements. He emphasised that the committee would work to facilitate regular dialogue, joint initiatives, and collaborative projects aimed at strengthening the national industrial base.

Participants agreed that structured cooperation between industry and academia would play a key role in promoting innovation, commercialisation of research, and long-term economic development. The meeting concluded with a commitment to pursue actionable strategies to institutionalise partnerships and ensure tangible outcomes in the coming months.

The meeting was attended by Prof Dr Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh along with representatives from academia and industry.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026